IMPLEMENTATION. TOPICS INCLUDE: Chapter Recommendations Priorities and Responsible Parties

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IMPLEMENTATION 2

This Chapter contains all of the recommendations from each of the Plan’s Chapters. These recommendations were developed with input from town boards, town committees, department staff, and local residents and volunteers through the public outreach process. Some recommendations are short term and can be implemented immediately, while other recommendations are long term and will need additional resources in order to be implemented.

It is important to note that a master plan is not a regulatory document but rather a framework that not only provides direction for the future growth and development of Pembroke but includes recommendations that will help to implement the Plan’s goals.

TOPICS INCLUDE:

Chapter Recommendations Priorities and Responsible Parties

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RECOMMENDATIONS & PRIORITIZATION

Included with each recommendation in this chapter is its overall priority as well as an identified leader who can assume a key role in achieving the specific recommendation. Timeframes for each recommendation reflect an assessment of the amount of effort and commitment of resources needed to advance each

recommendation. The scale for each timeframe is spread out over ten years with some recommendations identified as ongoing efforts.

When reviewing the recommendations that follow, it is important to keep in mind that they are really tools for focusing efforts and resources on those key issues that were identified through public outreach and committee work. Some of these recommendations could evolve over time as emerging trends develop or resources need to be refocused by changing priorities. What is most important

is that the Plan continues to be relevant and serves as a tool to evaluate progress in advancing the Plan’s vision and objectives.

CHAPTER 3: HOUSING OBJECTIVE 3.1:

Encourage housing that meets changing demographic needs.

RECOMMENDATION WHO’S RESPONSIBLE

ONGOING Continue to support and encourage the development of accessory dwelling units.

Planning Board

SHORT

Consider the development of a senior housing ordinance. Planning Board

Consider increased density permitted by right to bring housing costs down for both young people just entering the workforce and for seniors.

Planning Board

Consider a mix of uses in appropriate areas along Route 3 to accommodate varying development pressures, including greater housing densities.

Planning Board

OBJECTIVE 3.2:

Protect Pembroke’s rural character.

ONGOING Ensure that there are connections between subdivisions to avoid fragmented lands.

Planning Board

RECOMMENDATION TIMEFRAMES

ONGOING SHORT TERM

1-3 YEARS

MEDIUM TERM

4-6 YEARS

LONG TERM

7-10 YEARS

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SHORT

Enhance the open space subdivision ordinance by simplifying the density calculation process and establishing density incentives for amounts and preferred types of protected open space uses.

Planning Board

Consider the development of a range of density incentives for amounts and preferred types of protected open space uses.

Planning Board

CHAPTER 4: ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OBJECTIVE 4.1:

Support the EDC and make use of available economic development tools and incentives that serve to focus commercial development in suitable areas of Pembroke.

ONGOING

Support the activities of the Pembroke Economic Development Committee (EDC).

Board of Selectmen, Planning Board

Utilize the NH Division of Economic Development’s selectnh.com website to advertise the availability of commercial sites and buildings in Pembroke.

Town Administration Planning Department

Consider the expansion of the Commercial Zone and the encouragement of mixed-use developments.

Planning Board

SHORT

Consider the designation of specific areas along NH 106 and North Pembroke Road as Economic Revitalization Zones (ERZs).

Board of Selectmen, Economic Dev. Committee

Develop a Business Retention and Expansion Program to support local businesses and attract new businesses.

Economic Dev. Committee, Planning Department

Enhance the Economic Development section of the Town website with information related to the activities of the EDC and content regarding any available economic development tools and incentives.

Town Administration, Planning Department

MEDIUM Consider adoption and promote the use of Community Revitalization Tax Relief Incentive (NH RSA-79-e) in the Suncook Village area.

Board of Selectmen, Economic Dev. Committee

OBJECTIVE 4.2:

Promote “quality of life” economic development that capitalizes on the Suncook Village.

ONGOING Coordinate with the Town of Allenstown in a concerted effort to promote and revitalize Suncook Village.

Planning Board, Board of Selectmen, Town Administration, Planning Department

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Support the incremental development of the Pembroke section of the Merrimack River Rail Trail as an important economic development tool.

Planning Board,

Conservation Commission

Address Suncook Village parking availability to improve parking convenience and ease for residents, businesses and visitors.

Board of Selectmen

MEDIUM Consider the development of a façade/property improvement program in Suncook Village.

Board of Selectmen

OBJECTIVE 4.3:

Promote Pembroke and emphasize how Pembroke is a welcoming community for business and new residents.

ONGOING

Make economic development a key responsibility for the Town Planner or provide support for an alternate staff or contract position on an as-needed basis to promote economic development.

Board of Selectmen, Planning Department

Continue to review the existing land use regulations and development review process with regards to the predictability of the planning review process.

Planning Department, Economic Dev. Committee, Planning Board

CHAPTER 5: COMMUNITY AND RECREATIONAL FACILITIES WITH UTILITIES OBJECTIVE 5.1:

To inventory the present condition of the Town’s community facilities, equipment, and services.

ONGOING

Review this chapter annually with representatives from appropriate boards and committees to track progress and identify additional needs.

Town Administration

Continue to have departments participate in the annual update of the Capital Improvements Program (CIP).

Town Administration CIP Committee

OBJECTIVE 5.2:

To maintain a high level of quality services and continue to update services.

ONGOING Continue to provide timely road maintenance. Public Works Continue to develop the rail trail along the abandoned railroad bed following

the Merrimack River.

Conservation Commission, Planning Department

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Assess the need for replacement, repair of existing sewer lines. Sewer Department

SHORT Extend the town hall’s hours. Town Administration

Make needed improvements to Memorial Field. Recreation Commission

MEDIUM

Develop an after school program for teens. Recreation Commission,

School District

Offer activities, programs, and events for adults and seniors Recreation Commission

LONG

Provide overflow parking for the town hall/library area. Board of Selectmen, Town Administration

Evaluate sites for the location of a transfer station. Board of Selectmen, Town Administration

OBJECTIVE 5.3:

To ensure that community services, recreational resources, and utilities continue to meet the needs of the community into the future.

ONGOING

Identify town-owned land and land for potential acquisition by the town to locate future community facilities, including more recreation areas.

Board of Selectmen

Purchase land for the potential location of future community facilities. Board of Selectmen

Develop new parks, recreation areas, and facilities, including an area in North Pembroke and a community center.

Recreation Commission, Board of Selectmen

Maintain services to sustain the current quality of life enjoyed by the residents of Pembroke as the community grows.

Town Administration

Seek grants for community development and improvements. Town Administration

Expand the list of providers to provide utility options for Pembroke residents. Board of Selectmen

Extend the existing sewer and water lines as needed. Sewer Department, Water Works

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CHAPTER 6: EXISTING AND FUTURE LAND USE OBJECTIVE 6.1:

Utilize available methods to promote the protection of Pembroke’s rural character.

SHORT Promote the use of the open space conservation ordinance by simplifying the density calculation process and the consideration of a range of density incentives (See Housing Chapter).

Planning Board

MEDIUM

Consider the establishment of a Forest Land Conservation District (See Natural Resources Chapter).

Conservation Commission Planning Board

Consider the establishment of an Agricultural Conservation District (See Natural Resources Chapter).

Promote long-term protection of forest land and agricultural areas by purchasing development rights and securing restrictive easements (See Natural Resources Chapter).

Planning Board, Board of Selectmen

OBJECTIVE 6.2:

Consider future land use changes to Pembroke Street.

SHORT

Consider the development of a mixed use zone in the vicinity of Route 3 and Academy Road to accommodate a mix of housing and small scale retail/office uses.

Planning Board

Conduct a Route 3 Pembroke Street Corridor Study as soon as reasonably feasible to develop a community vision for Pembroke Street using a “Complete Streets” approach (See Transportation Chapter).

Planning Board

LONG

Apply access management techniques along major corridors, including US 3 Pembroke Street and NH 106 to improve connectivity, promote safety, improve aesthetics, and maintain community character (See Transportation Chapter).

OBJECTIVE 6.3:

Support the development and revitalization of Suncook Village.

SHORT Consider adoption and promote the use of Community Revitalization Tax Relief Incentive (NH RSA-79-e) in the Suncook Village area (See Economic

Development Chapter).

Board of Selectmen

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MEDIUM

Address Suncook Village parking availability to improve parking convenience and ease for residents, businesses and visitors (See Economic Development Chapter).

Board of Selectmen

Consider the development of a façade/property improvement program in Suncook Village (See Economic Development Chapter).

Board of Selectmen

Develop architectural design guidelines to enhance the aesthetics, character, and existing design of residences and businesses in the Suncook Village area (See Community and Sense of Place Chapter).

OBJECTIVE 6.4:

Promote existing and future commercial development along NH 106.

SHORT

Consider the designation of specific areas along NH 106 and North Pembroke Road as Economic Revitalization Zones (ERZs) (See Economic Development Chapter).

Board of Selectmen

Consider simplifying the Soucook River Development District regulations. Planning Board

MEDIUM Consider the expansion of the Commercial/Light Industrial (C-1) zone and the encouragement of mixed-use developments as appropriate within the Soucook River Development District.

Planning Board

OBJECTIVE 6.5:

Consider long-term issues related to Pembroke’s future development.

SHORT In coordination with the Town of Allenstown, study the needs and options for improvements to the Suncook Wastewater Treatment Plant.

Board of Selectmen

MEDIUM Study options for upgrading the Class VI sections of 3rd or 4th Range Roads in order to improve connectivity and provide an alternative route to Pembroke Street.

OBJECTIVE 6.6:

Continually review and update the land development regulations.

ONGOING Continue to review the existing land use regulations and development review process with regards to the predictability of the planning review process.

Planning Board, Planning Department

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CHAPTER 7: TRANSPORTATION OBJECTIVE 7.1:

Maintain the existing transportation infrastructure in an efficient and cost-effective manner, and make improvements and upgrades as safety and economics warrant.

ONGOING

Utilize Road Surface Management Software (RSMS) to help ensure road surfaces are properly maintained using objective data.

Roads Committee, Public Works

Participate in the Central New Hampshire Regional Planning Commission Transportation Improvement Plan process in order to advance transportation infrastructure projects into the NH Department of Transportation Ten Year Plan.

Planning Department, Planning Board

The planning board and selectmen should annually review the NHDOT bridge inspection reports for state and town-owned bridges to plan for future maintenance.

SHORT Study options for upgrading the Class VI sections of 3rd or 4th Range Roads in order to improve connectivity and provide an alternative route to Pembroke Street.

Board of Selectmen

OBJECTIVE 7.2:

Enhance the transportation system to improve its performance, better serve all users (cars, pedestrians, bicycles, transit), and to complement other town goals such as economic development strategies, community character, and quality of life.

ONGOING Maintain and improve pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure, including sidewalks, crosswalks and crossings, bicycle shoulders and/or bicycle lanes, and other enhancements for non-motorized transportation. Coordinate improvements with economic development initiatives.

Planning Department, Board of Selectmen

SHORT

Conduct a Route 3 Pembroke Street Corridor Study as soon as reasonably feasible to develop a community vision for Pembroke Street using a “Complete Streets” approach as described on p. 7.4. Tie in findings with economic development initiatives.

Coordinate with a community volunteer effort and initiate other public-private partnerships to implement a Pembroke Rail Trail along the abandoned railroad bed next to the Merrimack River.

Planning Department, Conservation Commission

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MEDIUM

Utilize traffic calming techniques such as striping narrower travel lanes, speed humps, raised crosswalks, or other treatments in order to promote traffic safety, reduce speeds, and enhance walking, bicycling, and neighborhood livability in targeted areas.

LONG

Continue to explore and promote where feasible an extension of the Concord Area Transit System (CAT) to Pembroke and support other regional transit initiatives such as a connection to Manchester Transit Authority (MTA) which would provide service to Pembroke residents.

Board of Selectmen

Support and promote Volunteer Driver Programs in the region to provide rides to essential services for seniors and others who do not drive. Consider

providing matching funds for the Mid-State Regional Coordinating Council Volunteer Driver Program.

Board of Selectmen, Welfare Department

OBJECTIVE 7.3:

Update policies and practices regarding use and operation of transportation infrastructure to better meet a range of community goals.

ONGOING

Ensure transportation improvement projects are consistent with various community goals, including economic development and preserving community character.

Board of Selectmen, Planning Board, Planning Department

Evaluate the transportation impact of new development that requires site plan or subdivision review, evaluate and address safety and neighborhood

concerns, and provide neighborhood connections to improve connectivity when possible.

Planning Board

SHORT

Continue to evaluate capacity, needs, and usage of existing parking availability in Suncook Village and develop a plan for managing parking based on findings and best practices.

Board of Selectmen

Evaluate the use and condition of Class VI roads and consider policies that maintain adequate access for landowners, allow for recreation opportunities, respect environmental concerns, and address quality of life issues that may arise from unmitigated ATV/OHRV use.

Board of Selectmen

LONG

Apply access management techniques along major corridors, including Route 3 Pembroke Street and Route 106 to improve connectivity, promote safety, improve aesthetics, and maintain community character.

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CHAPTER 8: NATURAL RESOURCES OBJECTIVE 8.1:

Preserve open space through use of land acquisition and easements.

ONGOING

Continue to identify, inventory, and assess natural areas in town and employ parcel assessment methodologies to rank the value of parcels for acquisition or conservation easements.

Actively seek out grant opportunities, donations and bequeathments to fund the acquisition of, or easement establishment on high-value parcels.

OBJECTIVE 8.2:

Use regulatory and non-regulatory strategies to preserve open space.

ONGOING

Utilize open-space subdivision, and other zoning options to establish and preserve high-value wetlands, shorelines, wildlife habitat, and trails on private lands.

Planning Board

Condition the granting of variances and special exceptions to zoning

ordinances on the establishment of conservation easements on subdivisions.

Zoning Board of Adjustment

SHORT Keep existing town-owned conservation areas protected from transfer to alternative uses by the establishment of conservation easements with non- profit trusts such as the Five Rivers Conservation Trust.

Conservation Commission Board of Selectmen

OBJECTIVE 8.3:

Preserve surface water and ground water quantity and quality.

ONGOING

Identify and monitor potential threats to the integrity, sustainability and potential use of water resources in Pembroke, including but not limited to:

i. Storm-water runoff and its potential effect on groundwater recharge and water quality

ii. Surface-water withdrawal and its potential to reduce groundwater recharge

iii. The storage of hazardous materials that could negatively affect groundwater supplies

Conservation Commission Planning Board Water Works

Perform sufficiently detailed aquifer-yield studies, to establish their

sustainable level of groundwater withdrawal, in order to protect the long-term viability of the groundwater resource in the town.

Planning Board, Water Works

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MEDIUM

Utilize data and mapping from the Pembroke NRI to identify surface water areas of significance in order to enhance protective regulations under the current Shoreland Protection District, including but not limited to:

i. Maintenance of the 125-foot setback for all uses including agriculture and forestry

ii. Disallowance of any earth-moving activities or other soil disturbances within the 125-foot shoreland zone

iii. Identification and mapping of those areas that by virtue of their proximity to the Shoreland Protection Zone may require even greater setback accommodations for the purposes of protecting special habitats, aquifers, floodplains, etc.

OBJECTIVE 8.4:

Preserve prime agricultural lands and soils, and retain agricultural land uses.

ONGOING

Review zoning ordinance and other regulations to ensure that agricultural uses, businesses, and operations are not unintentionally restricted and are consistent with RSA 21:34-a and RSA 674: 32-a-d.

Planning Board

Engage the conservation commission to promote long-term protection of these areas by purchasing development rights and securing restrictive easement.

MEDIUM

Establish an Agricultural Conservation District that discourages conversion of prime agricultural land to development, and provides tax incentives, beyond the Current Use assessment, to support locally grown food products.

Planning Board

Establish an agricultural commission pursuant to RSA 674:44-e to promote local agriculture and advocate for the protection of agricultural resources.

Board of Selectmen

OBJECTIVE 8.5:

Preserve forest lands.

ONGOING

Engage the conservation commission to promote long-term protection of the large lots within unfragmented forest areas of the town.

Monitor the implementation of the 2019 Forest Management Plan and update as needed.

MEDIUM

Establish a Forest Land Conservation District that discourages fragmentation, encourages cooperative management agreements among and between private landowners, and provides tax incentives, beyond the Current Use assessment, for owners of parcels that lie within a potential large-lot zoning district.

Planning Board

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OBJECTIVE 8.6:

Preserve wildlife habitat.

SHORT Utilize data and mapping from the Pembroke NRI, to prioritize high-quality wildlife habitat for protection by the town.

MEDIUM

Identify and seek to protect “green infrastructure areas” to avoid habitat fragmentation and its disruption to native flora and fauna and to act as corridors for the movement of wildlife assets.

LONG

Condition future gravel operations along the Soucook River to those which employ reclamation strategies leading to the permanent protection of riparian habitat and the regeneration of the native Pitch Pine-Scrub Oak Woodland described in the town’s NRI.

Planning Board

OBJECTIVE 8.7:

Preserve high value wetlands.

SHORT

Use the existing wetland assessment study (completed as part of the NRI) to nominate high-valued wetlands for classification under the State’s Prime Wetlands designation so that these wetlands, and their riparian buffer areas, may be targeted for heightened protection.

i. Establish larger general setbacks (e.g. 100 feet) for prime wetlands by town ordinance.

ii. Eliminate the allowance of forestry activities within prime wetlands and their protective buffer zones.

iii. Require suitable wetland assessment studies for those projects that intend to impact prime wetlands or their buffers by demonstrating no net loss of functional value as a result of such impacts.

iv. Provide for the allowance of on-site, permittee-responsible mitigation for prime wetland impacts in order to dovetail with state and federal permitting requirements.

v. Maintain a priority list of wetlands that are important to water quality protection or could benefit from restoration efforts to improve their functional value.

Update the existing Wetlands Protection District section of the zoning ordinance to do the following:

i. Identify the District more clearly with language that defines wetlands within the first subsection.

ii. Eliminate the “encouraging uses” subsection A. (4).

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OBJECTIVE 8.8:

Preserve scenic views.

MEDIUM

Use data from the Natural Resources Inventory and other sources to further assess and rank the scenic assets of Pembroke and to recommend potential preservation opportunities to the planning board and board of selectmen.

LONG

Authorize the public works department to provide roadside pull-offs where informal viewing of scenic vistas can take place in a safe and unobtrusive way.

Board of Selectmen

Consider entering into agreements with private landowners to provide public access to exemplary viewsheds in return for tax benefits that offset the high valuations (view tax) of publicly used viewsheds.

Board of Selectmen

OBJECTIVE 8.9:

Protect and maintain scenic roads, trails, and public access.

SHORT

Investigate the feasibility of additional traffic restrictions on Class VI roads to ensure that they are preserved in conditions suitable for a use by a broad range of agricultural, forestry, and recreational activities.

Board of Selectmen

Conduct a feasibility study of conversion of portions of the Class VI road network to Class A trails in accordance with the provisions of RSA: 231-A in the most scenic or unique environments, in order to limit uses to those which minimize environmental disturbance.

Board of Selectmen

MEDIUM

Give priority to the acquisition of lands or easements along the Merrimack shoreline in order to facilitate completion of the river rail-to-trails project and the Heritage Trail through Pembroke.

Review existing conservation lands in Pembroke to determine areas that are suitable for public trails, layout proposed trails in accordance with sound soil conservation practices, and seek out grants and volunteer programs to implement them.

LONG

Consider promoting and developing an interpretive signage program (i.e.

nature trail) with area schools (or as an eagle-scout project) at a suitable conservation property such as Ames Brook.

Consider establishing designated parking areas for more of the town’s larger conservation lands.

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CHAPTER 9: COMMUNITY HERITAGE AND SENSE OF PLACE OBJECTIVE 9.1:

Respect and value Pembroke’s rural character.

ONGOING

Encourage developers and landowners to consider preserving the historic and cultural resources found upon the landscape by promotion and education.

Planning Department, Planning Board

Encourage legislation and/or policies that establish an incentive for preservation of archaeological and historic resources on private property.

Historical Society

Protect and preserve stone walls along range roads and encourage landowners to consider retaining or rebuilding stone walls during alteration or

development.

OBJECTIVE 9.2:

Support connectivity that links natural, cultural and community networks.

ONGOING

Cooperate with other municipalities in seeking legislation to authorize the adoption of comprehensive policies for managing Class VI roads.

Town Administration, Board of Selectmen

Preserve existing range roads as Class VI roads or as Class B trails, or upgrade only if necessary while preserving the historical integrity of the roadway

Board of Selectmen

Look for opportunities to support the planning and creation of public spaces such as park benches, landscaping, community events or creative use of public buildings.

Board of Selectmen, Recreation Commission, Historical Society, Meet Me In Suncook

OBJECTIVE 9.3:

Encourage sustainable development practices that includes historic preservation.

ONGOING Encourage the granting of discretionary preservation easements as authorized under RSA 79-D.

Board of Selectmen, Historical Society

MEDIUM

Develop architectural design guidelines to enhance the aesthetics, character, and existing design of residences and businesses in the Suncook Village area.

Planning Board, Meet Me In Suncook

Improve the language of the Architectural Overlay District to stipulate aesthetic guidelines which are appropriate for preserving existing historic architecture and encouraging the adherence of the guidelines by new development.

Planning Board

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OBJECTIVE 9.4:

Create a community of residents and homeowners that understand and appreciate Pembroke’s historic and cultural assets and are interested in connecting and educating others on the importance of

preserving historic and cultural assets.

ONGOING

Develop/update educational materials in an effort to engage residents to participate in the protection and preservation of the natural and cultural environment.

Historical Society, Conservation Commission

Communicate with the NH Division of Historical Resources on a regular basis to obtain current information on resource preservation that can be disseminated to the public.

Historical Society

LONG

Work towards the establishment of a Pembroke Heritage Commission. Historical Society, Board of Selectmen

Plan for a town-wide survey of historic structures that will provide direction for any future designations or education programs.

Historical Society

Encourage town administration to distribute materials to property owners and builders relating to historic and cultural resources and grant opportunities for preserving these features.

Town Administration, Historical Society

CHAPTER 10: ENERGY OBJECTIVE 10.1:

Keep Pembroke residents and businesses informed on energy efficiency, conservation and renewable energy measures and where to find additional information and funding.

ONGOING

Maintain information and links on Pembroke’s website and at the library for residents and business owners on home energy saving strategies, renewable energy system installation, business energy programs, available financing, tax credits, green building design, etc.

Energy Committee

Sponsor and/or partner with others on workshops or events on energy conservation, efficiency, and renewable energy, and/or notify residents of regional events.

Energy Committee

MEDIUM

Support Pembroke businesses in their efforts to reduce their energy bills, take advantage of renewable technologies, and improve their overall efficiency.

Energy Committee

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OBJECTIVE 10.2:

Encourage and support energy conscious development.

ONGOING

Continue to support an Energy Committee that advises the town on energy issues and provides resources to residents and business owners relating to energy improvements and development.

Ensure that the land use regulations do not unduly restrict the use of alternative energy sources or sustainable construction techniques.

Planning Board, Planning Department

Regularly review amendments to the Energy Building Code and initiate any necessary amendments to ensure that Pembroke is proactive in addressing emerging energy efficient construction and practices.

Building Department

SHORT

Develop an “energy checklist” for any proposed projects that identifies energy efficiency considerations for homeowners, developers and municipal

departments.

Planning Department

Amend zoning, subdivision and site plan regulations that identify opportunities for renewable energy installations and address any potential impacts on surrounding properties.

Planning Board

OBJECTIVE 10.3:

To reduce municipal energy usage and costs and improve energy efficiency in municipal operations.

ONGOING

Actively monitor municipal energy usage and costs to track progress resulting from energy saving initiatives.

Participate in public or private programs that educate and/or fund the retrofit of municipal buildings and infrastructure

Continue to implement building energy improvement plans to increase the efficiency of municipal buildings, and incorporate planned improvements into the municipal budgeting process.

Investigate options for renewable energy at municipal buildings. Town Administration, Board of Selectmen